NEWSWIRE

Canada vs. Afghanistan

Afghanistan has struck first in the 2 match ODI series against Canada winning by 2 wickets in a rain affected match at King City.

Canada rebounded well in a format of the game that suits them as Ruvindu Gunasekera (74) and Hiral Patel (62) put on 72 runs in a mere 9 overs for the first wicket before Gunasekera fell. From there Canada were unable to build solid partnerships as like the Intercontinental Cup match, they were undone by poor shot selection.

Rizwan Cheema entertained the crowd in the middle order with his 35 but no other batsmen could stay long enough to get a substantive total. Where 280 was probably a par score for this wicket, Canada collasped to 230.

The reply got off to an uneven start for Canada as they lost opening bowler Henry Osinde after he took an early wicket to reduce Afghanistan to 7-1. Rizwan Cheema finished his over with a wicket to reduce the Afghans to 11-2.

From then on it was an exercise in mediocrity for Canada with the ball and in the field allowing Afghanistan to ease the pressure and build a partnership. While rain interupted their charge, Afghanistan were in control until Canada staged a miracle fightback taking 4 wickets in 2 overs to give Canada a fightlng chance.

Canada and Afghanistan clash on Tuesdsay at Toronto Cricket Club. Fans are reminded that there is limited parking at the club and to use public transit to get to the game.